The Lady in the Boxby Ann McGovernillustrated by Marni Backer

Ben and his sister see a homeless woman named Dorrie living in a box
over a heating grate. They worry about her and decide to give
her food and warm clothing, and convince a deli owner to let
her stay next to his shop. The two also start helping at a soup
kitchen, and smile at Dorrie when they see her in line.

This book powerfully
communicates that small efforts can make a big difference in a person's
life. There isn't a magical ending where the children "rescue" Dorrie
from her dire situation...and we love that aspect of this book because
that's reality, that's what really happens 99% of the time. Through
this story, children will learn that they can make a big difference
just by caring, by going the extra mile, by making the decision to be
compassionate.